Preparing for the Next Phase in the White Lion Reintroduction Program

The 700 hectare reintroduction area is stocked with numerous lion prey such as zebra, kudu, waterbuck, eland, nyala, bushbuck, warthog, blue wildebeest and giraffe. However, with the risks involved in hunting in the wild, lion mortality is high - 80% of lion cubs do not survive to become adults. The tragic death of our founding lioness (Marah) whilst hunting for her pride has highlighted the critical nature of White Lion conservation and the need to ensure the lions’ safety at all times – even in a semi-controlled reintroduction area.

The presence of giraffe in the reintroduction area would pose a significant risk to the Royal Family. Although experienced prides of lions are known to hunt prey as large as adult giraffe and even buffalo, one kick from a giraffe can, and has, critically wounded or even killed a lion. Hunting giraffe requires a very specialized technique that is passed on from generation to generation. Being only the 2nd pride of white lions being introduced to their natural endemic habitat, the risks must be minimized. The WLT has therefore decided to relocate the giraffe to another reserve in the area.

Giraffe capture and release is a complex task. A helicopter was used to steer the giraffe in the direction of the capture facility. Once located within the capture area (‘funnel’), fenced off with tall canvass curtains, the game capture staff quickly closed the curtains behind the giraffe and carefully directed them into the specially designed capture truck for their journey to a neighbouring property.